Preservation

The concept of preservation in the Bible refers to God's ongoing work to maintain and protect His creation, His people, and His Word. This divine preservation is evident throughout Scripture, where God is depicted as the sustainer of life and the protector of His covenant promises.

1. Preservation of Creation: The Bible begins with the account of creation, where God not only creates the world but also sustains it. In Colossians 1:17, it is stated, "He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together." This verse highlights the belief that Christ is actively involved in maintaining the order and existence of the universe.

2. Preservation of His People: God's preservation of His people is a recurring theme in the Bible. In the Old Testament, God preserves the nation of Israel despite their repeated disobedience. Psalm 121:7-8 declares, "The LORD will guard you from all evil; He will preserve your soul. The LORD will watch over your coming and going, both now and forevermore." This assurance of divine protection is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are promised eternal security in Christ (John 10:28-29).

3. Preservation of His Word: The Bible itself is seen as a testament to God's preservation. Despite numerous attempts throughout history to destroy or discredit the Scriptures, they have endured. Isaiah 40:8 affirms, "The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever." This enduring nature of God's Word is a testament to His faithfulness and power.

Influence

The influence of the Bible and its teachings extends beyond the spiritual realm, impacting various aspects of culture, morality, and society. The transformative power of Scripture is evident in the lives of individuals and communities throughout history.

1. Moral and Ethical Influence: The Bible provides a moral framework that has shaped the ethical standards of many societies. The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17) and the teachings of Jesus, such as the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), have been foundational in establishing principles of justice, mercy, and love. Romans 12:2 encourages believers, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."

2. Cultural Influence: The Bible has significantly influenced art, literature, and music. Biblical themes and accounts have inspired countless works, from Michelangelo's "David" to Handel's "Messiah." The parables of Jesus and the Psalms have been sources of inspiration and reflection for writers and poets across the ages.

3. Social Influence: The teachings of the Bible have motivated social reform and humanitarian efforts. The abolition of slavery, the civil rights movement, and various charitable organizations have been driven by biblical principles of justice and compassion. James 1:27 emphasizes, "Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world."

4. Personal Influence: On a personal level, the Bible has the power to transform lives. Hebrews 4:12 states, "For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword." This transformative power is evident in testimonies of individuals who have experienced profound change through their faith and adherence to biblical teachings.

In summary, the themes of preservation and influence are deeply interwoven in the biblical narrative, reflecting God's ongoing work in the world and the enduring impact of His Word on humanity.